Who makes the world's best GT car? New Aston Martin DB12 meets Ferrari Roma and Maserati GranTurismo

The Aston Martin DB12 is a gorgeous new grand tourer and Aston Martin thinks it's sufficiently special that it even call it a Super Tourer - the world's first, it says.
Well. In that case, it feels only right that we should wheel out a couple of other GT cars to meet it. One is the Ferrari Roma, Ferrari's entry-level car that feels anything but an entry-level car, and the other is the Maserati GranTurismo, a car so GT-ish that the clue is, quite literally, in the name.
Question is, then, what are they like, inside and out, and to drive? Join Matt Prior as he finds out.
Shot and edited by Shreyans Chordia.
The vital statistics for this trio are in the video but if you'd like them in nugget form here they are:
Aston Martin DB12
price: £185,055
Engine: V8, 3982cc, twin-turbocharged
Power: 671bhp at 6000rpm
Torque: 590lb ft at 2750-6000rpm
Transmission: 8-spd automatic, rear-wheel drive
0-62mph: 3.6sec
Top speed: 202mph
Ferrari Roma
Price: £182,675
Engine: V8, 3855cc, twin-turbocharged
Power: 612bhp at 5750-7500rpm
Torque: 561lb ft at 3000-5750rpm
Transmission: 8-spd dual-clutch automatic, RWD
0-62mph: 3.4sec
Top speed: 199mph
Maserati GranTurismo Trofeo
Price: £161,250
Engine: V6, 2992cc, twin-turbocharged
Power: 543bhp at 6500rpm
Torque: 479lb ft at 3000rpm
Transmission: 8-spd automatic, 4WD
0-62mph: 3.5sec
Top speed: 199mph
00:00 Introduction
01:12 Aston Martin DB12 interior
04:20 Maserati GranTurismo interior
06:17 Ferrari Roma interior
08:15 Aston Martin DB12 driving impressions
14:12 Maserati GranTurismo driving impressions
18:22 Ferrari Roma driving impressions
21:15 Conclusion

[@rENEGADE666JEDI]

The new Maserati GT totally impressed me. It looks nice, drives well, is comfortable, and it can accommodate a family of four.

[@jotabarberaIV]

I agree. I would choose it among these 3 if it had a v8

[@sevensevenalways7995]

​@@jotabarberaIVexactly. The noise. Oh the noise... It's just not good enough

[@andybroer651]

I've got a V8 version, which I plan on keeping as long as possible @@jotabarberaIV

[@nigel.w]

And it's 20 grand cheaper.

[@peterjordansonthe2nd731]

I think the reason why Matt keeps the year round neck beard, is because he's balding. Also, he talks like he's constantly swallowing phlegm - Sad!

[@paulallwood6033]

DB12 for me, looks fantastic, love the interior. Im sure its "more than good enough" to drive as well

[@mbingham10]

In the flesh the Aston Martin looks the best its beautiful

[@Ssh52]

I really hope the GranTurismo does well for Maserati and same goes for Aston with the DB12 It's been a little while since they produced cars that can be considered by buyers (outside of car enthusiasts) as genuine alternatives to the likes of Ferraris and Porsches... They deserve it

[@stef1833]

I really hope the GT depreciates as bad as its predecessor. So we can afford one in a couple of years :)

[@clementr]

@@stef1833if you can’t afford a new maserati, you won’t be able to afford the 15k€ repair bills every year and it will stay in your garage rusting

[@stef1833]

@@clementrI can afford a new one. I just opt to not pay the depreciation and buy one coming back from a lease in 2-3 years. Let someone else bleed dry for me.

[@kyronrc]

The new Granturismo is just a design staple. One of the best looking modern cars! But id take the DB12 overall...

[@jamesdonoghue5907]

I like that you focused on the rear seats - some buyers of these cars, it can make a lot of difference. Great review as usual, thanks.

[@caymanblack9567]

That Aston is just stunning!

[@djjohnny5166]

Truly is!

[@geraint8989]

Love that DB12 body-wheel colour combo. Have heard how much people like Roma’s looks but I just can’t get onboard.

[@MrAlpinab7]

You actually heard about somebody liking the Roma ? 🤣

[@jamesenglish8639]

Think the Roma is trying to be an Aston or Posh Jag …

[@fredrce]

A white leather interior would have been better fitting

[@TC-lk2ev]

The front end of the roma looks like some sort of techno-whale I'm really not a fan of it.

[@kmac5849]

The Roma works best in dark colours, this is the absolute worst, emphasising that grid style grill

[@Love-Gratia]

I choose DB12

[@Neofolis]

I think you summed it up when you said, if you were going to drive to the south of France you'd use the Maserati. The Maserati fulfills the brief of Grand Tourer better than the other two, despite having a 6 cylinder engine. That's not to say it's the better car, but it does appear to be the better GT car.

[@camryt]

Shame you didn’t include LC500 and Conti GT in this. But that Aston looks damn fantastic

[@nigel.w]

And the new AMG GT since it now starts from 153k. The LC 500 is a much less expensive car. Maybe they'd upset Ferrari too much if there was the suggestion that a car that costs 70-90k less is worthy of comparison?

[@camryt]

@@nigel.w oh, the LC500 definatelly punches above it's weight (pun intended), the interior in that thing is amazing and could probably shame some competitors.

@@camryt Yep, agreed. Especially if you consider the price difference.

[@cdf12]

So true, the LC500 literally has a bigger motor than all 3 of these (5L V8)

[@Fentanylenjoyer...]

The Bentley is above their price range.

[@tenpoundburrito]

Does anyone else feel like the DB12 should've had a 12-Cylinder? Partly because of the name, partly because it was available on the DB7, 9, 10, and 11.

[@flyingphoenix113]

It's definitely missed. I would have preferred Aston develop their own inline 6 to just dropping in another generic Mercedes AMG V8.

[@toolarmy46and2]

Maybe it will down the line, as the AE31 V12 in the DB11 is a fantastic engine. Incidentally the DB10 Spectre Aston was a 4.7litre V8.

[@Pietervdv]

Only slightly, as this engine makes all the right noises and performs well enough to make a V12 redundant.

[@FastTeam11]

The thing is, that if they had put the V12 in the DB12 with around 680hp, they would cannibalize the DBS. Also, as many journalist said, it’s a great engine, it sounds good and is lighter than the v12. So I have zero problems with the v8 in this…

[@papa_pt]

It's ironic bc I've heard they skipped DB8 in order to avoid customers thinking it had 8 cylinders and not 12

[@Adamlllllllllllljjjljljjjjj]

I couldn’t agree more about the rear seats. “Even if their not spacious it’s better than having no seats”. Great video! These comparisons are super entertaining to watch even if these cars are miles above what I can afford.

[@andybroer651]

All 3 are lovely cars. I have grown kids so I went for the Maserati (V8 versions) not as fast, but NOT slow 🙂 Really any of the 3 would be just amazing to own and drive.

[@italianstallion3130]

I just really wish you had a Continental in this test as well

[@stefannilsson7186]

The DB12 are outstanding I have already ordered one and it has arrived to Sweden 😊

[@diegodiegito7248]

Maserati GranTurismo 😍🔱

[@onemanhisdub1969]

You're only saying that because your Welsh 😂

[@since-jx1ix]

Nice little vid this. Fair assessment given the slight nuances between them. All great pieces of kit.

[@Pietervdv]

I'd have the Aston, as I think it would make me feel the best. I think it's absolutely stunning looking, whereas the Maserati loses points with engine sound and the open laptop interior design. The Roma doesn't do it for me. I dislike the front (it looks more like an electric car), I dislike the interior design with that prominent iPad squeezed into the middle and I don't like the sound of a Ferrari V8. Never have, never will.

[@elexalex]

@pietervdv Absolutely on point! 👌 In conclusion, I‘ll shortlist the new Vantage. ;)

[@haleonwheels4576]

Aaargh! No decision on which one is the best GT car (Title of the video). I'm going to go with the Maserati. Just too bad it doesnt have that old 4.7 V8 any longer.

[@miguelbilbao1824]

That's the Lexus LC500!

[@haleonwheels4576]

@@miguelbilbao1824 That is a genuinely great car. Not sure why it wasn't included. Maybe it's too good for the money.

[@fredrce]

The best is not in this group, it's the now discontinued ferrari gtc4 lusso v12

[@haleonwheels4576]

@@fredrce if they included all the GT cars ever made, the video might have been a bit longer.

[@hweheheh]

Significantly slower than the cars listed, and doesn't carry the same prestige.

[@andyw8558]

DB12 is beautiful + that AMG engine 👌

[@eastbaystreet1242]

I have that AMG engine (slightly detuned, but over 600hp) in an AMG, and I love it. I have owned most of the great cars at some point and have settled into the AMG V8.

[@goldreverre]

@@eastbaystreet1242 Yes, it's a fabulous engine. I have it in a DB11, where it is rated at around 500hp. It feels right-sized for the car.

[@eastbaystreet1242]

That's a good way of saying it, right-sized: we aren't high school boys looking for races. We just want some nice power from time to time while we are generally cruising in these lovely GTs. And I do love Astons. I just wouldn't be able to get away with that in my situation, socio/politically. @@goldreverre

[@kristianspeke1]

Great review. Lovely cars, Aston looks stunning in green with the bronze wheels

[@kevincoombs7348]

I still miss my next door neighbours DB9's sound especially on start up.

[@MrAlpinab7]

Looking forward to a virage or later db9

[@siddheshkadam6377]

Great video! Very nicely shot and edited!!!!!

[@samrosen9823]

All of these cars are super impressive! Very excited for the convertible Roma and GranTurismo. Would be interesting to see how they compare to a car like the Lexus LC500, which nearly competes with these for half the price.

[@moahdriven]

I would argue for including the LC500 as a budget option in this group to see how it fairs

[@josechuperez4280]

It's older, with much less power and more comfortable. It's not a rival for these cars.

[@nigel.w]

Good call.

@@josechuperez4280 1. You can still buy it now. (not older) 2. Less power: What do you think GT stands for?....@moahdriven was right, you were wrong.

[@josechuperez4280]

It's not the thing to be right or wrong, they are different opinions. It's older lunch so the interiors and the software looks also older. The client who managed to buy one if this cars, may buy also a Lexus for his wife or son, no for him. They are in another league of prices and that makes the difference.

[@MB-zt9eo]

The real Granturismo where 4 people can stay decently well with the right confort and engaging performances is the Maserati Granturismo. The others 2 are very Good Sport Car, but not really 4 seats Gt

[@nigel.w]

The GranTurismo Modena saves another 30 grand off the the Trofeo's price and only gives away 0.4sec 0-60/62mph. On the road, most won't notice the difference in performance, which is about 60bhp and 50nm. Maybe if you intend to carry four adults around on a regular basis, you may appreciate the extra power and torque, but that won't be the case for most people. As far as trim, my understanding is that the Trofeo has carbon fibre exterior and interior trim pieces that the Modena does not, and that's about it. I suspect most will buy the Modena. If you really need more power, you'll get a remap. If you like the look of carbon fibre, you'll get a few bits and pieces wrapped, and also save on expensive carbon fibre repairs. If you're a mature GT buyer, the Modena will serve you well enough for 50 grand or so less than the Ferrari and Aston.

[@peaceoutvanlife]

Good info. And good taste! First episode I've watched. Subscribed!

[@Jeffybonbon]

I went to see DB12 in the flesh today and i think its stunning car in every way the new Interior is very close to Bentley

[@pratiktyagi4892]

Great Production Quality!

[@jakemoore1973]

Great review Matt - as always

[@longtailgt]

Wow that background scenery at 5:21 was gorgeous! Fantastic video as always from Matt! I think I'd go with the Maserati. Even though I have a few complaints about the interior, I think it's the nicest looking car here (though the DB12 does look amazing in this spec), has the most usable interior and the most comfortable ride. Didn't think I'd be saying this but I really like it.

[@neutralsamurai231]

Thank you for the high production video.

[@user-rb4zj3fu8d]

At the end of the tests, I would prefer to buy Maserati GT. Roominess, confort or sports mode, style car. great job done by the team.

[@feedback1814]

The Aston DB12 is a stunning looking car and the one I would choose. The Maserati and Ferrari would be a harder choice to make. I did like the final conclusion as to what car was the 'best'. The car that you like the most!

[@normsallitt2753]

Excellent review!! Thank you

[@GeordieAmanda]

If only jaguar had kept on developing the F Type and gave us a cut-price GT (well, cut-price in a relative sense :D )

[@MrAlpinab7]

F type was too small. Should have grown in size

[@jonasbaine3538]

XK coupe that already had backseats. Could of refresehd that GT platform and let F type be sportcar

[@jamiep61]

I enjoyed watching the Video Comparison. The Aston Martin DB12 Is my favourite 😊

[@petertimowreef9085]

The Roma is the first genuinely pretty Ferrari since the 355.

[@italianstallion3130]

Man I’m not seeing that at all. We agree on the 355- but I’m Not there on the Roma- I think they have to rework the grill/front end a bit on a midcycle refresh

[@am-gi6vo]

sorry but the 296> roma

[@fenrir_szn6978]

​@@italianstallion3130agreed, there's something up with the front that I genuinely don't gel with....so much so that I actually find it to be the least attractive car there. I even consider the f12 a prettier car than the roma

[@crimsonpirate1710]

Like F it is

[@dr1311]

Beauty is very much subjective, but I’ll still say a visit to the eye doctor is in order…

[@jocole7688]

Maserati GranTurismo Trofeo is just gawjus

[@dusandestanovic5884]

Thank you for your vision, you extracted the three finest automobiles in the world.

[@jayb1108]

Great review, journalism and entertainment 😊

[@dusandestanovic5884]

The best car review I've watched in my life and I seriously doubt I will watch a better one.

[@TheFakeMackie]

Great coverage!

[@sebastianjo752]

Awesome video, i would have loved to see a 911 turbo s in the mix. The new Aston is so still gorgeous and the new interiour fits it so good, its the car i would take, if i had the money.

[@kgosintlatleng2321]

Great review.

[@Aliens_Gonna_Get_Ya]

Matt… Great reviews… always uber kool… 😎😎😎

[@Sunshinehappy_and_the_Coolgang]

I like how instead of trying to force an opinion on us, he explains the personalities of each car and leaves it up to the subjective viewer.

[@supraJZA80s]

Yep he did well here

[@gregorygant4242]

Looks the Aston , driving dynamics the Ferrari , drive comfort GT-like environment the Maserati. The Maserati really impressed me didn't expect it to drive as well as it did , wow ! Great review Sir ,keep it up ! Bye bye !

[@brianr754]

Great video! As the proud owner of an older(2011) GT convertible, I would fully agree with you on your assessment of the GT. All around great car, fun when you need, and comfortable enough to go on long distance trips! I would hazard a guess that if you start looking at maintenance costs, the GT would be far cheaper to drive in the long run than the other two. Thats just my 2 cents worth of slightly biased opinion ; )

[@thegreatestbharat_]

So you're saying DB12 isn't the best choice here, for a person who likes doing long trips and driving it daily?

[@thegreatestbharat_]

I understand your point tho.

[@DouglasJWalker]

I love how you dnt tell us what we must like or not like. Refreshing

[@matyasm]

Nice work! I'd be curious about Matt's watch. What make and type it is?

[@oliverjones9889]

These are your best kind of reviews imo 👍🏻

[@satyakammisra]

The Maserati is so tempting but the previous generation was better engine wise. It’s a car everyone loves but no one buys. Missing here are new AMG GT coupe, Continental GT

[@nigel.w]

As soon as the Folgore (BEV) versions go on sale -- presumably this year -- Maserati will almost certainly have no rivals for quite some time. And, you say that the previous generation was better engine-wise, yet while people praised its sound, they criticized both its power and torque. Moreover, not only is the Nettuno a return to what Maserati pioneered, unlike McLaren and Ferrari's latest offerings, it is not a hybrid. So, at least in the case of the MC20, it has a unique selling proposition in being more old-school supercar, and not having the complications of hybridization and the likely associated problems in both the short and the long run. In the MC20, it is criticized for its sound, but IMO the McLaren doesn't sound any better. The Ferrari 296 sounds better, but IMO it doesn't sound as good as Ferrari claims, and it's very significantly more expensive. The Roma's engine note is also not very Ferrari-like; it's too bassy. Nonetheless, I think you'll find that in the context of the GranTurismo, the Nettuno's engine note will be less criticized. At least you can still hear the engine, unlike most new cars. IMO, it's arguably just right for a grand tourer; it's also otherwise a phenomenal pedigree power plant. We'll have to see if people continue to avoid Maseratis. While the GranTurismo has been pushed upmarket price-wise, its quality is also significantly improved, and it's still 20 grand cheaper than the Ferrari and Aston. Surely, the Aston should be the cheapest, given that Aston didn't pay to develop the engine, which also makes it a mongrel. And while MC20s are currently taking a bath in the used market, so is the 296. I hope the fact that the GranTurismo is now very close price-wise to the others doesn't put people off. After all, Aston has pushed up its prices quite significantly to directly compete with Ferrari, and people are still buying Astons, even though IMO they don't stack up against the Ferraris. I agree it would also have been good to have the Bentley and AMG in this comparison. The Bentley is of course a known quantity, although most of the reviews have been of the now-defunct W12 version. I suspect that for most people the Bentley remains the best GT. However, the V8 is certainly less cultured than the W12 -- although there are similar arguments made to favour the V8 over the W12 as there are in respect of the AMG V8 over Aston's own V12. I'm interested in the new AMG GT, even though, like the GranTurismo, it's also significantly more expensive than the previous generation. Still, it's 30 grand cheaper than the Aston and has AWD. If the Bentley W12 were still available, I think I'd choose that. Now, I'm not sure, but for me, it would be between the Ferrari and the Maserati. I've always been a Maserati fan -- and I actually often prefer sixes over V8s -- but now the GranTurismo's base price is circa 'only' 20 grand less than the Roma -- at least in Trofeo guise -- it makes choosing the Maserati harder. The GranTurismo is more practical and doesn't have such an annoying user interface. And for me personally, I wouldn't make the decision on the basis of the Roma's engine over the Nettuno V6. However, there's the strong pull of the Ferrari badge, as shallow as that may well be. Versus the Trofeo, I'd probably choose the Roma. However, what probably makes more sense is Modena version at 30 grand less than the Trofeo. While its on paper stats aren't very impressive in 2024, it only gives away 0.4sec for the 0-60/62mph sprint. Of course, the Trofeo also comes with carbon fibre trim on the exterior and interior. But for me, the Modena makes good sense against the competition, whereas I'm not soo sure the Trofeo does so. I suspect on the used market in a few years we'll see many Modenas with a remap and carbon fibre wrapped bits and pieces. When five years old, they could be down to 50 grand.

[@glintrhmj]

That new DB12 perfection ❤❤🎉🎉 especially because they finally finally re did the interior

[@richardtodorov]

The Ferrari. It’ll have the best residual value, most reliable, right size, and it’s a Ferrari.

[@sanglemalt]

The problem is, It’s also a Ferrari.

[@nigel.w]

Best residual percentage, but may still lose more actual cash.

[@richardtodorov]

@@nigel.w lol residual is only about percentage mate

[@peteranderson7497]

What a great comparison. I realise you live in the UK BUT just say you could be transported to Australia and we did the same test using a "long way" from Sydney to Melbourne. This route would roughly be Sydney west to Windsor and north to Dunedin (via the Putty Road and The Golden Highway with a stop in the pub at Cassillis) and then west to Dubbo (via Dunedoo Road) which marks "stage one" of the drive. From Dubbo we head south to Cowra via Wellington, Molong and Canowindra (pronounced Can-ow-n-d-ra). Here we join the Olympic Highway all the way to Albury then the boring Hume Highway south for several hundred kms to Melbourne. There would be a stand-out winner after such a fabulous drive - the Maserati GranTurismo. BUT! MY test route might be done even better in a Ford Mustang GT (5.0 ltr V8) at a fraction of the price of your three cars and with even more enjoyment. Ahhh! We can but dream!

[@dam00r]

I enjoyed this. Reminded me of the Top Gear season 7, episode 1

[@God_emperor_Doom]

I wanted this video. And thank u for bringing it out especially Aston Martin db 12 vs Ferrari roma. The Maserati is just overpriced but it's actually a 4 seater coupe grand tour. I like it 😌

[@crunchpunch8613]

All 3 absolutely beautiful cars. I live in Germany and here only German brands like Mercedes, BMW, Audi and Porsche get attention. Unfortunately, I find all these brands absolutely boring and mostly horrible in design. The British and Italians know how to design cars. Elegant lines, sporty, classic shape. The German manufacturers are totally overdrawn with weird plastic shapes to aggressive fronts littered with fake air intakes. The Aston, the Maserati and the Ferarri, on the other hand, are elegantly luxurious and remind me of the good old days of automobile construction from the 60s to the 80s.

[@doommonger7784]

The Lexus LC500 puts your overpriced European cars to shame both in looks and beautiful interior, for a lot less money.

[@theycallmebernd]

I would always go for an Aston, no matter if any other car is "better"- because i just adore them. Fanboy for life!

[@kevinvanoirbeek1894]

The looks of that Aston… where is the time that the looks created in Maranello had no competition?

[@nigel.w]

Since they ditched Pininfarina for in-house design.

[@goodfest007]

60 seconds into the video - Aston has won on looks alone!…..

[@wildsic]

The best brands car ever... Italian and English without question.

[@rjfjgkgkskfg]

Maserati GranTurismo 🔱⚡️👍🏻 nice review!

[@cassokon]

I genuinely don't understand why folks test drive $300,000+ sports cars in terrible weather conditions. I'm never going to drive my DB12 in the rain or snow

[@philippcaesar2856]

I drive portofino daily, no problem with the rain at all

[@MMAK51]

DB12 is stunning 😍

[@eugenemakhotin343]

And now imagine how absolutely perfect and quick Aston could be if it has all wheel drive. Dynamics minus a second till 100 immediately. Perfect ride in slippery conditions etc, etc. Driving in snow? No problems. They made a great job, so nice car. The only thing is missing. Or to present it like 911 in two options - with all wheel driving and with rare.

[@nigel.w]

While the Aston is no 911, you can look to the 911 (and other Porsches) to inform us that Porsche restricts the power of its RWD offerings. I'd say that from the Porsche perspective, the Aston needs AWD. And the new AMG GT is AWD; as is the new GranTurismo. While the Roma is RWD, the Aston is no Roma. The Aston has problems putting its power down. IMO, the Aston also needs AWD for safety's sake.

[@joy5044]

Thank you. DB 12 it is!

[@sebastianconstantin5176]

5:39 automatic closing door if the wind is strong enough :)))

[@nigelbond4056]

Decisions, decisions… I’d like all three please. Now, when are my lotto numbers going to give me more than just a lucky dip?

[@oguzhankeles88]

Nobody can beat Aston in a beauty contest. What a beautiful car!!

[@PS-tu2ds]

Love Autocar. The Premier Inn of motor journo-ness. You always get the same consistent level of stuff.

[@zer0875]

Most "on the fence" conclusion ever! Thanks

[@ShaunRoberts1]

Any one of those would do for me ❤

[@killercobra107]

For me it’s the Aston, all day. Spec’d just like that. Perfect. Unfffff.

[@shopwithaaron]

Roma rivals Jaguar XKE as most lovely design of all time!!

[@kane0508LCAC]

That Aston sounds like a V12 in the interior shots!

[@dusandestanovic5884]

I completely agree with everything you said about those cars, I see them the same way.

[@vinceorchiston9823]

Love the Aston Martin and that muscle car sound 🎵🎶 also love the Ferrari Roma but it would have to be in red to hide that hideous front end grill styling , light colours just don't suit the Roma...in this instance though i would choose the Maserati Grantourismo out of the three ...it looks stunning , the interior is classy and well appointed, can sit four proper adults which is always a plus especially for such a sporty looking car and it sounds great as well for a V6 ...so yep the Grandtourismo it is 👌

[@pkl8811]

DB12 for sure.

[@JBOsurf]

When he says the words fit and finish you can SEE a fit and finish issue! Look at the way the leading edge of armrest/console storage cover intersects with the centre console. Leather sitting higher than the steel look trim pieces. Also, the tan side of the armrest is sitting up off the black side section. There is an obvious gap. Also the shroud over the driver instrumentation does not touch the dash, although this could be designed that way...

[@justinassobieskis]

Maserati GranTurismo v8

[@67claudius]

It's a difficult choice, but Maserati is is the real gran turismo here.

[@hansnordlander2618]

The Ferrari every Day of the week

[@simonparry3867]

Wondering why you didn't include a Continental GT ? Is it no longer competitive?

[@nigel.w]

Probably just couldn't get it. It's now only available with the VAG V8, so arguably more competitive with these three.

[@MaxStraesser]

I'll be taking the DB12 in a heartbeat. I've sat inside all three GTs and have driven the Ferrari and the Aston, and the Aston just hits that GT note perfectly. In my opinion the highest quality and most useable interior, best infotainment system, and most brand appeal. I'd still wager that the Roma beats the DB12 ever so slightly when it comes to exterior styling, but the Aston is still an utterly gorgeous car and is exactly what the DB11 should have been. On a side note, happy that Maserati is still making cars in this segment but truth be told I don't see anyone picking it over the Roma or the DB12 in any concievable scenario.

[@nigel.w]

The GranTurismo Trofeo is 20-25 grand cheaper than most competitors, and the Modena is another 30 grand cheaper than that (so 50k cheaper), which also means it's more than 20 grand cheaper than the new AMG GT. I wouldn't take the DB12 because it's far too shouty for a gentleman. ;P)

[@prayashmudi1999]

That Roma is beautiful ❤

[@arielatom68a56]

It's not as fast and (obviously way less expensive) but I think it's difficult to have a grand touring comparison test and not include Lexus LC 500. Curious what your thoughts were, was it mainly a price bracket thing?

[@hughoxford8735]

Bingo

[@JeanClaudeJrLefebvreXL]

The Gran Turismo and Roma both have well integrated LCD HUD cluster, the DB12 looks like an iPad slapped behind the steering wheel, completely unacceptable, everything from a driver standpoint needs to be flawless at that price tag. It doesn't matter, you have to charm the driver period.

[@alfamonk]

great test - can I just make an ask though: the overdubbing of engine-note is starting to remind me of 80s movies...if the car is clearly slowing down, please take a moment to think about adding an accelerating engine note audio track over the top. It can't just be me who finds that really annoying 😂

[@dado8963]

That's an interesting watch.

[@charlesclement383]

I'm shocked how impressed he was with the Maserati. Most journalist don't give Maserati, or Alfa Romeos the credit they deserve. They always kiss on the Germans.

[@nigel.w]

Maserati's problem is that on the one hand it is trying to play with the big boys with the MC20 and pushing the GranTurismo's pricing up a couple of levels, and on the other hand it's deepening relationship with Alfa Romeo, which is also having its own identity crisis. Maserati is suffering from both a lack of investment and the plan to dramatically increase brand sales. Instead of Ferrari stealing its designs, it is stealing from Alfa, and in the case of the GranTurismo, rehashing a 20yo design, no matter how good it was and is. Moreover, in the strange desperation to dramatically increase brand sales, it is almost badge-engineering Alfa, not that far from being an upmarket trim level for Alfa, and in so doing is diluting the brand's value it is otherwise attempting to restore in order to compete with Ferrari, McLaren, and Aston. And then you have Alfa in Formula 1, and the 33 Stradale, which makes one question the direction of both brands under Stellantis. Unfortunately, when freeing Maserati from the shackles of Ferrari, the shackles were just given to Alfa. At least under Ferrari, Maserati had a clear place in the Fiat group's line-up, as did Alfa. Nonetheless, I am not at all shocked that the press is willing to take Maserati seriously. Most of the press have always wanted Maserati to do well. And IMO, the same goes for Alfa. The problem is that the Italians have typically cheapened out somewhere. Same with Jaguar. Now we're seeing some of that from the Germans. Both the MC20 and the new GranTurismo have unique selling propositions, and quality is up. Moreover, when both are offered as full BEVs, it doesn't appear that there'll be any rivals for quite some time. I just hope the investment that has been put into BEV development pays off.

[@ethen300]

The granturismo is the only car that can put real adults in the back, the rest are just jokes!

[@OldManOnTrak]

Great review, as always, Matt, but it's left me with a few questions: Has the DB12 got a bit too much Mercedes in it, and is 'thuggish' what Aston were going for? Does the Maserati really need 4WD to add to the weight of an already big car, especially since it's the least powerful car here? Is the Roma too much sports car and not enough GT? Oh, decisions, decisions! If I had to choose one, I'd go with the Maserati, because it looks absolutely gorgeous and it can fit more than one passenger on my dream road trip to the Amalfi coast

[@nigel.w]

I think Aston was going for "'thuggish'". And IMO, it does have too much Mercedes in it. Given that Aston didn't pay to develop the engine, it should surely be the cheapest, too. The Maserati still has 650nm of torque in Trofeo guise and 600nm in Modena guise. And the chassis was designed as an AWD platform. But it is about 200 kilos more than the Roma and about 100 kilos more than the Aston, if all manufacturers figures are to be believed. It's still quick enough though: 0-60/62mph 3.3/3.5secs Trofeo and 3.7/3.9secs Modena. The Aston's tech doesn't work very well, and the Roma's user interface is annoying. And while many are now criticizing the sound of the Nettuno V6, the Roma's V8 isn't particularly Ferrari-like, it's too bassy. IMO, criticisms need context and should be made evenhandedly. The GranTurismo Modena saves another 30 grand off the the Trofeo's price and only gives away 0.4sec 0-60/62mph. On the road, most won't notice the difference in performance, which is about 60bhp and 50nm. Maybe if you intend to carry four adults around on a regular basis, you may appreciate the extra power and torque, but that won't be the case for most people. As far as trim, my understanding is that the Trofeo has carbon fibre exterior and interior trim pieces that the Modena does not, and that's about it. I suspect most will buy the Modena. If you really need more power, you'll get a remap. If you like the look of carbon fibre, you'll get a few bits and pieces wrapped, and also save on expensive carbon fibre repairs. If you're a mature GT buyer, the Modena will serve you well enough for 50 grand or so less than the Ferrari and Aston.

[@jerehada]

Italian high end cars set their chassis and steering so well now. The Aston sounds like it was setup German style at T Moeler instruction.

[@poboylucky1088]

“Automatic closing doors. If the wind is strong enough” brilliant

[@Nite-owl]

If I won the lottery, I'd have the Aston. Mostly because of its looks and interior, but also because the paddles are on the steering wheel and not the column. I genuinely don't understand why you'd want them on the column, meaning if your on a bend you'd need to take one hand off the wheel to change gear if needed. No doubt someone will be along to explain how it makes more sense, and I'm happy to be educated 🙂

[@p11v]

All you steering paddles guys got it totally wrong. First, you are not Schumacher, you probably don’t need to change gears while your hands are criss crossed doing a 160 degree turn. Second, Schumacher or any F1 driver with steering mounted paddles don’t have issues with these, because the steering is so quick, they basically know where the paddles are at any given time + they are easy to reach. It’s a totally different story in a road car. Steering mounted make sense only for your granny’s Mercedes. They can make them small and unobtrusive. They’re smaller and cheaper. Now, Ferrari know what they’re doing, Maserati too. Aston is just a Mercedes parts bin story at this point, so totally understandable.

[@Nite-owl]

Yet F1 paddles are attached to the steering wheel, meaning they don't have to alter their grip to know where the paddles are. If anything, the speed at which THEIR brains need to work, you'd think they'd position them for best performance results. Not arguing, just looking for the reasoning behind different opinions. Looking around the internet it seems it's pretty much split down the middle for preference.@@p11v

[@p5z91]

Obviously DB12. Perfection 🙌🏼

[@MiguelCedenoLozano]

How do you guys think the Lexus LC500 compares to these 3? I'm thinking that it's a compelling option when you consider the everyday use cases.

[@lucian6395]

It's probably better than all of these as a daily, and even though it looks good, I doubt many people shopping between these 3 would consider it, I dont think it's elegant enough, and doesn't have the brand snobbery these 3 have.

[@MiguelCedenoLozano]

It's the only GT that I would trust to survive a genuine cross country trip from NY to California without getting stranded half way in tornado central. Also, it feels more dense and better put together than these 3. You immediately notice it when opening the solid doors. The others can't use being lightweight as an excuse because otherwise they'd be built on carbon fiber mono chassis. The leather in the Maserati and Ferrari feel like that of a crappy entry level jeep. The Aston's leather isn't as nice as previous models. The Lexus might be underpowered but it's perfectly adequate and it sounds way better than these 3 as well.

[@lucian6395]

@@MiguelCedenoLozano I agree with the lexus probably being the best all round, but Lexus doesn't have the brand Snobbery Aston, Maserati and Ferrari. Most of these GT's are going to be a second car that's not used all that often anyway, so I doubt the long distance reliability would be a factor for most buyers.

[@MiguelCedenoLozano]

@@lucian6395 Good point. Paying more for a lesser product = flex Paying less for a better product = broke boi This is the logic that the western world will die on.

[@lucian6395]

@@MiguelCedenoLozano There are certain people who have that mindset when it comes to products, but honestly I'd rather have the aston than the Lexus, if I was buying a car like that it would be for life not just for a few years, so the price difference wouldn't bother me too much if I could afford it, I think the Aston is better looking, I like the Aston Martin Community and the sticking point for most people, they've always wanted an Aston Martin or a Ferrari etc, Lexus hasn't been around long enough for them to be the cars people have always wanted, and apart for a couple, Lexus's unless your into them aren't really all that memorable. Apart from the LFA what Lexus's are truly memorable that haven't also had a Toyota badge on it?